Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the final World Cup of his career, saying he wants to savour every moment of the tournament.
The 41-year-old made the announcement on Sunday ahead of Portugal’s Round of 16 clash against Spain.
“This will be my last World Cup, but let’s hope tomorrow isn’t my last game,” Ronaldo told reporters.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner said he would retire from international football with a clear conscience, insisting he had given everything to the sport.
“The day will come when I retire from international football. Whatever happens, I’ll leave with a clear conscience because I’ve given everything to football,” he said.
Ronaldo said his motivation to continue playing is driven by passion rather than the need to prove himself.
“I play football because I love it, You have to enjoy every day,” he said, noting that he has already scored three goals at the tournament.
The Portuguese star has enjoyed another memorable campaign, becoming the first player to score in six different World Cups after netting twice against Uzbekistan in the group stage.
He also scored from the penalty spot against Croatia in the Round of 32 for his first World Cup knockout-stage goal.
Reflecting on the tournament, Ronaldo described it as the most emotionally rewarding World Cup of his career, praising the passion of the fans.
Despite never winning the World Cup, Ronaldo said his legacy would not depend on lifting football’s biggest trophy, adding that Portugal has the quality to win the title.
The veteran forward, who remains under contract with Al-Nassr until 2027, also said criticism throughout his career has helped him grow both as a footballer and as a person.
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